Sizing Up Exercise: 5 Tips for a Healthier Student Body

We all know that exercising is one of the best things you can do for your body. But on college campuses – home of stressful and unpredictable student lifestyles – working out can be an especially important contributor to a healthy, productive student-body.

Exercise can improve everything “college”, from time-management skills to immune-system strength, and even one’s attention span by providing the physical balance to the often-times straining qualities of classrooms and libraries.

However, while even thirty minutes of exercise a day can boost energy levels, it’s still no easy task when studying is the main focus.

Take a look at these workout start-up tips to get the healthy body to match your healthy mind:

Start small

One of the biggest reasons students start working out, only to see their routine fade within a week or two, is that they start too big. Be realistic with your workout routine as well as your goals and you’ll avoid getting discouraged out of exercising.

Set goals

Whether it’s setting a weight-loss goal, or just telling yourself you’ll run to the streetlight the next morning instead of the stop sign, always have a “finish line” in mind to avoid letting your focus drift.

Develop a routine

Consistency is the key to effective exercising. Incorporate time for exercise into your daily schedule until it becomes as routine as going to class.

Recruit a partner

Nothing motivates a workout quite like a teammate. By exercising out with a buddy, you’ll find yourself not only getting that extra push on cold mornings and last-stretches, but also progressing faster due to an added competitive edge.

Eat better and sleep more

The first thing you’ll notice after stepping up your workout routine, or just starting one, is soreness. This probably means you’re working out correctly. But it also means your body needs quick, efficient energy, which you won’t get from processed foods.

Make gradual changes in your diet to include more freshly prepared foods and more fruits and vegetables (the more colorful the better) and your body will recover quicker. This, combined with a little more sleep, will give you more energy in the gym as well as the classroom.

For the latest from Harry and the ACI Specialty Benefits team and for more wellness tips and information, please visit our YouTube channel and be sure to follow us on twitter @ACISpecBenefits, Google+, Pinterest and facebook.  Also feel free to contact ACI Specialty Benefits at (800) 932-0034, or email info@acispecialtybenefits.com.